Is Trump Undermining Efforts to Grow the Black Teacher Workforce?

Gina Dukes realized her passion for teaching while listening to a former homeless peer share how significant educators were in his journey. Transitioning from a reserved pupil to a vibrant poet, Dukes aimed to advocate for Black students. “I aspired to be their champion,” she states. “I wanted to provide a nurturing space, a gateway to broader opportunities.” In 2017, she became a high school English teacher at Science Leadership Academy at Beeber in Philadelphia and mentors aspiring teachers via the nonprofit Center for Black Educator Development (CBED). However, organizations like CBED confront serious hurdles due to the Trump administration’s policies. In February, over $600 million in federal education grants aimed at promoting racial diversity were halted. Despite a judge’s order for restoration, an appeal is anticipated. Meanwhile, Orpheus Williams of CBED describes efforts to adapt. Collaborative lawsuits with the ACLU aim to protect funding for DEI initiatives, reaffirming dedication to nurturing future educators.